Msg #1344 Mary's Two Alabaster Boxes

What The Bible Says

Good Samaritan's Penny Pulpit by Pastor Ed Rice

It is curious that Mary recites word for word the observation of her sister: “Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.” (John 11:21,32) Attitude shows in our approach to Christ, even in troublous times, even when He is our Lord and Saviour. Martha's attitude was previously addressed by Christ: “Martha, Martha thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen the good part.” (Luke 10:41-42) Mary had the right attitude from the start. Let's suppose she was from Magdala, was called Mary Magdalene, and out of her came seven devils. John 11:2 clarifies that her overwhelming gratitude was the object lesson to the Pharisee in Luke 7, where she brought her alabaster box of ointment to Jesus. Martha came to Jesus to correct him, to point out her disappointment in him, and to ask for his help. She, again, needed a reminder of who he was. “I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me thought he were dead, yet shall he live.” Mary came to Jesus, fell down at his feet, and with her sister's very words, she worshiped him. She loved much, because she had been forgiven much. Her sins which were many, were forgiven her. Her attitude caused the shortest verse in the Bible, and Jesus wept. Her great love showed up in a second alabaster box in John 12, and after his resurrection Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene. You and I have been forgiven much. The next time Martha shows up in life, when cumbered about many things, when people don't do things just the way you know they should be done, and frustration wells up inside, you have not fallen at Jesus' feet and remembered who He is.

An Essay for week #44 Sun, Nov 3, 13

Published at www.GSBaptistChurch.com/ppulpit/biblesays13.pdf

In paperback at http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/GSBaptistChurch

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